Local news

Speed-up for jam-packed A65 roundabout in Horsforth

An MP has welcomed a £2.8m scheme to tackle congestion at a notorious bottleneck roundabout.

Stuart Andrew, MP for Pudsey, Horsforth and Aireborough, said he was delighted Leeds City Council had approved funding for major improvements to the roundabout on the A65 at Horsforth.

He said: “The Horsforth roundabout is and has been a notorious bottleneck for many, many years and the source of great frustration to residents from across the area whether it be Guiseley, Kirkstall, Horsforth or Pudsey.

“Before I was elected to Parliament I asked the then Shadow Secretary of State for Transport to see for herself the problems it was causing.

“I’m delighted that funding is now in place to get major improvements to help traffic flow in a better and safer way.

“In addition to the improvements at Horsforth we have also secured funding from the government for the Rodley roundabout, which equally needs improvement. Coupled together, I hope we will see a better experience for motorists.

“This will be welcome news to thousands of residents who have shared my frustration that these two problems are finally being addressed.”

Horsforth councillor Dawn Collins added: “I was delighted to hear the council had voted in favour of going ahead with the development of the Horsforth roundabout.

“The improvement and signalisation of this roundabout is a project I have been pushing through and working toward since I was elected.

“This is a critical junction, not only for Horsforth, but also for the city. Both the ring road and the A65 are major arteries.”

She added: “The Leeds highways officers I have worked with to deliver this project and who negotiated with the developers to get the changes made as soon as possible have done an excellent job.”

New traffic signals are expected to be introduced this summer at the roundabout, which is often severely congested, especially during peak periods.